Systems and methods for database management of transaction information and payment data

ABSTRACT

A system for storing data related to a transaction and for facilitating the transaction, the system comprising: a database; an application server coupled with the database and configured to store information associated with a plurality of transactions, the information including a transaction identifier, and escrow agent identifier, and account information related to an escrow agent account for the escrow agent maintained with a financial institution, the application server further configured to receive an image of the a check associated with a payment related to the transaction from a buyer or buyer agent, forward the check image, payment information, and escrow agent account information to the financial institution to cause a deposit into the escrow agent account, and generate and send notifications to the escrow agent and buyer or buyer agent.

RELATED APPLICATIONS INFORMATION

This application claims priority as a Continuation-in-Part patent application under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/703,907 entitled “PAYMENT PROCESSING SYSTEM, APPARATUS AND METHOD IN REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS,” filed May 5, 2015, which in turn claims priority to Provisional Patent Application 61/991,555 filed on May 11, 2014 with the same title, both of which are incorporated herein by reference as if set forth in full.

BACKGROUND 1. Technical Field

The embodiments described herein are related to relation management as well as document management and payment management and verification, in particular with respect to real-estate or other transactions that require payment handling and verification.

2. Related Art

In certain types of transactions, e.g., real-estate transactions require that certain payments be made and verified at certain points in time. Failure to do so can put certain aspects of the transaction or the entire transaction in jeopardy. For example, in a residential real-estate transaction, the buyer must provide an earnest money payment in to confirm the executed Real Estate Purchase and Sale Contract. The contract is not enforce until the payment is confirmed.

Typically, the, e.g., earnest money payment is made to the title insurance company associated with the transaction or to a separate escrow company. Usually, the buyer must give a check to the buyer's agent, who must hand deliver, or deliver via Fedex or some other carrier, the check to the seller's agent, who passes it to the seller, who must then deposit the check.

Moreover, other payments or distributions of funds, whether prior to closing, at closing, or post-closing, can require checks to be received or sent by the title company, which means an employee of the title company is then tasked with making sure that all the checks received are associated with and credited to the correct accounts, or sent to the proper parties. But sometimes the checks or payments are lost, or associated with the wrong account, or can be subject fraud.

Wiring funds is also subject to problems because of the risk of unlawful access to e-mails from title company representative to the Buyer and/or the Buyer Agent containing wiring instructions for wiring of cash amounts.

Accordingly, the process for receiving an verifying such payments or distributions is often a time consuming, manual process that is still subject to mistakes or fraud.

In general, real-estate transactions often involve multiple payments to parties to the transaction, their agents as well as third parties and include earnest money, option money (optionally), Buyer's Cash Due at Closing (amount due communicated to Buyer and Buyer Agent via Title Company Representative), real property appraisal, real property inspection, Homeowners Association Resale Certificate, repair on real property made by Seller, commissions due to buyer agent, buyer broker, seller agent and seller broker. Known methods for handling the payments concomitant to real estate purchase and sale transactions and closing of such transactions, which include forwarding/handling of paper checks and emailing of wire instructions, are prone to human error, transaction fees, delay and even fraud. The known risks in handling of payments include inefficiencies in handling of paper checks and inefficiencies in communications among parties to the transaction, their brokers and the title company.

Attempts to convert to electronic systems that allow participants to send and receive funds electronically also have problems that include security and the ability to verify the identity of a participant.

SUMMARY

Systems and methods for database management of transaction and payment data are disclosed herein.

According to one aspect, a system for storing data related to a transaction and for facilitating the transaction, the system comprises a database; an application server coupled with the database and configured to store information associated with a plurality of transactions, the information including a transaction identifier, and escrow agent identifier, and account information related to an escrow agent account for the escrow agent maintained with a financial institution, the application server further configured to receive an image of the a check associated with a payment related to the transaction from a buyer or buyer agent, forward the check image, payment information, and escrow agent account information to the financial institution to cause a deposit into the escrow agent account, and generate and send notifications to the escrow agent and buyer or buyer agent.

These and other features, aspects, and embodiments are described below in the section entitled “Detailed Description.”

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Features, aspects, and embodiments are described in conjunction with the attached drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example transaction processing system configured in accordance with one example embodiment;

FIG. 2a-j are screen shots illustrating an example process for facilitating an earnest money payment using the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating how the system of FIG. 1 can carry out the process illustrated by the screen shots of FIG. 2 in accordance with one example embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating an example process for processing option checks within the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating certain components of an application processor included in the system of FIG. 1 in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 6a-f are screen shots illustrating an example process for downloading an application, registering a user and establish the relevant credentials to be used for authentication within the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating a process for entering a contract within the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the transfer of information and funds in a large scale sales environment within the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the interfacing of multiple third parties via the application of FIGS. 6a-f within the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example process for ordering an appraisal and paying the appraiser within the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a diagram further illustrating the application server of FIG. 5; and

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating an example wired or wireless system that can be used within the system of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Certain embodiments of a transaction management system that allows various parties to communicate with each other, provide documentation and other information, as well as transmit and verify payment in a secure fashion are disclosed herein. It will be understood that while various steps, components, parties, etc., are disclosed in the description of the embodiments below, the embodiments are by way of example and should not be seen as limiting the systems and methods described to only those steps, components, parties, etc., disclosed.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example transaction processing system 100 configured in accordance with one example embodiment. At the core of system 100 is application server 120. Application server can be configured to manage the transaction as described herein. Application server 120 can also be configured to download a mobile application to devices 110 of various participants in the transaction. Alternatively, the mobile application can be downloaded from an online app-store. Information, documents, checks, etc., can then be captured using devices 110 and the mobile application downloaded thereon. The information, documents, checks, etc., can then be processed, verified, etc., on server 120 and then various information, notices, etc., can be forwarded to various participants or entities as described below.

The various participants can include the buyer agent 100, seller agent 140, title company representative 150, lender company representative 155, possibly an escrow agent, and various other third parties 157 such as the appraiser, inspection agent, handyman or repair man, etc. Each of these participants can access server 120 via a device 110, such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop or other computer, etc.

Server 120 can also be interfaced on the back-end with the various institutions systems involved with the transactions. Often these institutions are associated with the various participants described above. For example, server 120 can be interfaced with the title company 180 (and escrow company (not shown) if a separate escrow company is used) and lender 182 as well as the financial intuitions associated therewith. Thus, for example, server 120 can be interfaced with the financial institution 170 associated with the title company 180 and the financial institution(s) 190 associated with the various third parties. In certain embodiments, depending on what payment options are available server 120 can also interface with payment service providers 160 associated with the various payment options and/or institutions. Alternatively, server 120 can act as the payment processor.

At a high level, each participant can download and register with the mobile application. During registration, each participant can create a credential that can be used to authenticate the participant's interactions with the mobile application. Once registered, the transaction can be set up within the system 100. For example, the property number can be used to create a “file” within the system. In addition, certain information related to each of the participants can be associated with the file as well as any institution specific information, such as the lender's file number, title company's file number, etc.

Third party vendors can also sign up and provide the information needed provide verification of task performance and receive payments as a Vendor, such as an inspector, attorney or realtor.

Once the file is set up, the application can be used to exchange information, notices, documentation, payment, etc. In particular, the system can be used to make and verify payments such as the earnest money payment. While the systems and methods described herein can facilitate payments via credit card or through service such as Venmo or Paypal, payment via mobile deposit of a Check 21 image or ACH can also be supported. Peer-to-peer payment can also be facilitated as described in more detail below.

Both mobile deposit and ACH require physical check processing via the mobile application. For example, the process for facilitating an earnest money payment is illustrated with the aid of the screen shots of FIGS. 2a-j and the block diagram of FIG. 3. As can be seen in FIG. 2b , the buyer's agent can select a payment in the application user interface 200. The agent can then select “send earnest money” through the User Interface (UI) 200 of the buyer's agent 110. As illustrated in FIG. 2c , the buyer's agent can then select an escrow/title company, via UI 200. For example, the application can be set up to use geolocation capabilities to poll the escrow agents within a defined radius with respect to the mobile user.

In certain embodiments, the agent can then select the branch office as illustrated in FIG. 2d . The application can be configured to present options 202 for sorting the branches. As illustrated in FIG. 2e , the buyer's agent can then be presented with a screen via UI 200 that allows the agent to upload the contract, which may already been scanned or otherwise saved in digital form, other information related to eth property, realtor, seller and the payment can also be provided.

As can be seen in FIG. 2f , the mobile application 302 can then prompt the buyer's agent to capture an image of the front of the check and possibly the back as well. FIGS. 2g and 2h illustrate the capturing of the front and back of the check. It should also be noted that this capture can also be performed by the Title Company at closing, or by a notary as described below for a remote closing.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the mobile application 302 on the buyer's agent's device 110 can then cause a check 21 complaint image of the check to be provided to the financial institution 170 associated with the escrow/title company 180 for deposit into the appropriate escrow account 172. If mobile deposit is not available, the application 302 can obtain the MICR information from the check information and use it to perform an ACH transaction. As noted above, a payment processor 160 can facilitate the transaction.

The agent can then receive a confirmation as illustrated in FIG. 2i and an indication that all parties will be notified as illustrate din FIG. 2j . As can also be seen in FIG. 3, e.g., email notifications 304 can automatically be sent to all or selected transaction participants.

Thus, the application 302 or application server 120 can cause a notification to be sent to the escrow/title company 170 associated with the escrow account 172. The notification can include: the name of the real estate agent who initiated the transaction; the agent's contact information; the property address associated with the transaction; the payment amount, the name of the seller; the name of the buyer; the name of the escrow and/or title company; and the date and time of the delivery of the check.

Optionally, the notification can include a check image. In addition, or alternatively, the notification include a link that can be used to access an image of the check through application 302/server 120. The receipt notification can be printed along with the check image and placed in a physical file. Alternatively, a virtual file can be maintained on server 120 and accessed through application 302 or via a portal to server 120.

In so-called ‘broker escrow states,’ the Broker Escrow Account (as opposed to the Title Company Escrow Account) is designated for receiving escrow payments per the disclosed system. When the real estate sale and purchase contract is executed in the broker escrow states, the disclosed system allows for independent title companies to be involved in the transaction as follows: (1) The independent Title Company Representative receives the Real Estate Sale and Purchase Contract that the Buyer or Buyer Agent uploads via the disclosed application and (2) Remote deposit capture of the Buyer's escrow payment is processed per the described method and is deposited in the Broker Escrow Account and the Application Server automatically sends an e-mail confirmation of that payment to the independent Title Company Representative.

The process for processing option checks can be slightly different and is illustrated in the flow chart of FIG. 4. In this case, the check image can be captured by the buyer in step 402 and ACH information can be pulled from the check image in step 404. In step 406, consent to send the ACH transaction information can be obtained from the borrower, i.e., buyer, via the buyer's application 302. In step 408, the seller email and the property address can be confirmed and the information sent to server 120 in step 410.

In step 412, server 120 can then communicate with the seller to confirm that the seller is willing to receive the option payment. If so, then in step 414, the seller can be requested to provide the property address to verify the seller identity. The seller can then provide the seller's account and routing information.

In step 416, server 120 can route the instructions and information to the appropriate financial institution 170 in order to complete the ACH transaction. In this case, the Seller provides and electronic endorsement that is payable to the operator of server 120, or can elect the operator to serve as the agent of Seller to receive the funds.

A few things to note about the payment transaction described with respect to FIGS. 2 and 3. First, as noted in more detail below, the transaction information does not need to be stored anywhere in the system. Thus, wiring instructions are not emailed “in the open” inviting interception by fraudsters. And obviously, the physical check does not need to go through several handoffs.

Second, the system can be configured to allow the identity of the participants to be authenticated. As noted above, each participant can be required to create a credential during registration that can be used or authentication. For example, when a participant is registering, they can create a PIN, or register a biometric, such as finger print, voice, or face, or some combination thereof as the credential to be used for authentication. Thus, when the check is transmitted, the, e.g., buyer's agent can be required to authenticate themselves using their credential.

This can be important, because as noted above, the buyer's agent is not depositing the check into their own account, rather they are depositing the check into the escrow account associated with the transaction. Accordingly, extra authentication may be required.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating certain components of system 100. As can be seen, the system can comprise a number of application/portals 504-512 configured to interface with a number of resources 518-522 via one or more API's 516. The applications/portals can comprise an agent portal 504 as well as a broker portal 506; title company manager portal 508 as well as a title company clerk portal 510; and an administer portal 512. In addition, the resources 518-522 can be accessed through the application 302 and possibly via a website 502 associated with server 120.

The resources can include a database for storing and accessing documents, information, notifications, check images, etc., associated with the sales transaction being handled in the system; an authentication module 520 for handling the authentication described above; and payment processing module for, e.g., interfacing with payment processor 160.

It should be noted that depending on the embodiment, some or all of the portal functionality, API's, and even some of the resources, such as the authentication and payment processing modules 520 and 522, respectively, can be integrated into mobile application 302.

Each participant must download the application 302, register and establish the relevant credentials to be used for authentication. This process can be illustrated with the aid of the screen shots of FIG. 6a-f . In FIG. 6A, it can be seen that once the application 302 is downloaded onto a device 110, the UI 200 can present a registration page. Once the participant selects the registration process then, as illustrated in FIG. 6B they can then select what type of participant they want to register as. Once the participant makes a selection, the application 302 can attempt to use location services included in device 110 to, e.g., aid authentication.

As illustrated in FIG. 6C, the participant can then be prompted through UI 200 to provide identifying and contact information, and be prompted to validate the participant's device 110. The application prompts the users to provide identifying, authenticating information such as first name, last name, e-mail address, mobile telephone number, (for agents and brokers) real estate license number and the state that is the licensing authority and driver license number. Users such as the Buyer Agent, Buyer Broker, Seller Agent and Seller Broker may also be prompted to provide their respective bank account identifying information.

Once the select to confirm the device 110, a code can sent to the mobile device 110, which the user can then enter for validation as illustrated in the screen shot of FIG. 6D.

As illustrated in the screen shot of FIG. 6E, the participant can at this point be prompted to generate a credential, which can be as simple as a PIN. In certain other embodiments, however the credential can comprise the capturing of one or more biometric through device 110, as well as other information such as an image of a driver's license, or other identification.

Once registration is complete, the UI 200 can present a home screen from which the participant can access various functions as illustrated in the screen shot of FIG. 6F. The process flow presented to the participant for each function presented will vary depending on the type of participant. In other embodiments, only the seller's agent downloads application 302 and other participants interact with server 120 via notifications and the portals of FIG. 5. In still other embodiments, certain front-end users interface with the system via mobile application 302, while certain back-end users use portals.

Subscribing front-end users (Buyer, Buyer Agent, Buyer Broker, Seller, Seller Agent (also known as Listing Agent), Seller Broker) can set up secure user accounts to access features and functionalities of the disclosed application as described above. The back-end users of the disclosed application include the Title Company (and specified branches), Title Company Representative(s), Title Company Processing Software, Title Company Escrow Agent, Title Company Bank, Buyer's Lender (if financing is involved), Underwriter, Third Party Vendors/Service Providers (see below) and Sales Agent of Developer (when Seller in the relevant Real Estate Purchase and Sale Contract is a builder/developer). Back-end users can be authenticated and “pre-boarded” during an integration process.

In pre-boarding, the provider/host of the disclosed system inputs identifying information of authorized back-end users of the disclosed system, e.g., via admin portal 512. Pre-boarding also includes inputting identifying information relating to third party vendors involved in the real estate purchase and sale transaction and can also include inputting so-called velocity controls for disbursements to the third party vendors in which maximum allowed disbursement amounts are specified for each such third party vendor entity receiving a disbursement (payment), e.g., at/post closing.

The term third party vendor is herein construed broadly and refers to service providers and taxing authorities involved in real estate sales transactions and includes but is not limited to inspectors, handymen, fumigators, law firms/legal representatives of the parties to the transaction, the title company, tax assessor entities, underwriters and Homeowner's Warranty Insurance providers. An approval process can be required for a third party vendor that has not been pre-boarded.

Pre-boarding is required if the Third Party Vendor is to be paid via the disbursements functionality of the disclosed application. In strict liability states underwriters handle escrow thus taking away from independent title companies. Thus, per the disclosed system, underwriters may be pre-boarded thus preserving a role for the independent title company representative.

To open an order, or initiate the handling of a sales transaction, within system 100, the seller's agent can select documents from the home page illustrated in FIG. 6F. The seller's agent can then be prompted per UI 200 to scan and upload the executed Real Estate Purchase and Sale Contract thus causing the capture of certain metadata in that Contract and the efficient, automatic opening of an order in the Title Company Processing Software.

Title Company Processing Software refers to known software applications used by title companies and their representatives and escrow agents to ‘open an order,’ initiating a process for effecting a closing of a real estate purchase and sale transaction and then processing the order (including calculating Cash Due at Closing and generating a Closing Disclosure document). This step helps to enhance efficiencies in handling of closings by Title Company Representatives and/or Title Company Escrow Agents.

The contract can be captured using device 110 and application 302 or it can be scanned separately and uploaded/downloaded to device 110 or server 120 where it can be accessed via application 302.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating a process for entering a contract using system 100. As noted above, in step 702, the contract can be scan and captured. Certain meta data can be captured at the same time. For example, the instructions can cause the server 120 to recognize certain fields in the contract and capture the information included therein. The captured metadata preferably include the names of the parties to the contract, namely the Buyer and the Seller, sales price, the address for the real property, the amount of the escrow payment, and indication whether or not the buyer seeks financing.

Computer-executable instructions on the Application Server 120 can then cause the transmittal of the Real Estate Purchase and Sale Contract to a pre-boarded Title Company and the Title Company Processing System in step 704. Similarly, when the Seller in a Real Estate Purchase and Sale Transaction is a Developer, the Real Estate Sales Contract between the Buyer and the Developer can be communicated to the Title Processing System and the relevant metadata are automatically captured.

If the Real Estate Purchase and Sale Contract involves financing (as evidenced by captured metadata relating to the financing term/clause in the Contract), then the Application Server can, in step 706 prompt the Buyer to optionally opt into authorizing the Lender to send a copy of the Closing Disclosure (CD) to the Buyer's Agent. This is a useful automated notification feature of the disclosed system as it enables the Buyer Agent to actively follow progress of the financing process to ensure that closing can take place as planned and that the Buyer provides the Lender all of the required information as required per the CD under the newly promulgated rules of the Consumer Financial Protection Board. The opt in by the Buyer protects both the Buyer and the Buyer Agent and ensures protection of the Buyer's personal identifiable information found in the CD.

The Application Server 120 comprises computer-executable instructions for prompting the Seller Agent, Seller Broker, and if applicable Buyer Agent or Buyer Broker, to upload a scanned copy of each page of the Commission Disbursement Agreement (CDA), in step 708 and once uploaded, the Application Server can be configured to automatically e-mail the CDA to the Title Company Representative for use by the Title Company Representative in preparation of the Closing Statement and Closing Documents in step 710.

Per step 712, the Application Server further comprises computer-executable instructions that cause a prompting message to the Buyer to optionally opt in for converting the Buyer's physical check representing Buyer's Cash Due at Closing to a wire. If the Buyer opts in, then at step 714 the Application Server performs the Convert Check to Wire functionality after the Buyer captures an image of the front and back of the check and uploads the image to the Application Server.

It is worth noting that by using the system to perform the wiring function, the process of emailing instructions in the open can be avoided.

As noted above, certain third parties can also be pre-boarded in order to facilitate completion of the transaction. For example, the appraiser and home inspector can be pre-boarded. When their services are needed, application 302 or server 120 can be configured to message the third party(ies) in step 716. Once their tasks are complete, such parties can indicate such through the application 302 or a portal on server 120 in step 718. Such a third party may be required to upload confirmation or documentation that they have completed their task.

For example, the inspector can scan and upload the inspection report, and appraiser can upload the appraisal. This can cause the proper notifications to the proper participants in step 720.

If any repairs need to be made, then a repairman can be notified and once the repairs are made the repairman can upload receipts for material, etc. Alternatively, the seller can upload receipts to confirm that he has ensured the repairs.

As noted, the system can be configured such that payment is made to these third parties once they have confirmed completion of their task. This can involve sending a notification to the participant, such as the buyer or seller or their agent(s) notifying them that payment is due. Payment can then be handled as described above for, e.g., the option payment. Alternatively, payment can be handled at closing as described below.

In step 722, on a date that is before the date of closing set as per the Real Estate Contract (or date of closing as modified and approved by the Parties to the transaction and the Title Company Escrow Agent), the Application Server can be configured to send an automated e-mail notification to the Buyer and the Buyer Agent of the Cash Due At Closing amount.

For certain transactions, such as transactions involving sale of condominium units, there is a provision for transmittal of Homeowners' Association Resale Certificate, which contains important, relevant information sought by the buyer. Typically, the Homeowners' Association assessed a fee to create the HOA Resale Certificate signaling approval of a change in ownership of a unit. Thus the Application Server 120 can be configured to prompt the Seller or Seller Agent to upload the Homeowners' Association Resale Certificate (if applicable in the transaction), in step 724 and once uploaded, the Application Server can be configured to automatically send an e-mail notification to the Buyer, Buyer Agent, Seller, the Seller Agent and the Title Company Representative in step 726.

As noted above, the seller can be a developer or builder. Thus, the “seller” will be involved in tens or even hundreds of transactions. The systems and methods described herein can clearly make managing such large volumes of transactions much easier. Stated another way, system 100 provides the scalability to handle large volumes of transactions. This is illustrated in FIG. 8, which is a diagram illustrating the transfer of information and funds in a large scale sales environment.

As can be seen, the builder 802 will have the builders back end systems 803 that handles all of the data for the various properties. This back end system 803 can communicate with the mortgage company's, or companies' 804 Lender Operating System(s) (LOS) 805 and the Title Company's 806 Title Operating System (TOS) 807, which can also be in communication with each other all through or assisted by the application 302 and server 120 as well as API's therewith.

Thus, as builder 802 engages in sales process 810 with multiple buyers, system 100 can be facilitating those transaction as described above. The property information and associated documentation can be communicated to mortgage company or lender 804 as can buyer information for buyers involved in sales processes 810. Data and documentation for the various transactions can be communicated from the lender 804 to the title company 806. As needed, data and documentation can also be transferred between title company 806 and lender 802 as can the collection of and distribution of any funds, such as earnest money or funds to cover, e.g., the appraisal as described above.

System 100 can also be used to handle the closing process 812, which can proceed as described above for the various properties and transactions.

As noted in FIG. 8, the Title Company can handled the closing process 812. Thus, if the Title Company has opted into a service called the Post-Closing Payments Disbursement System Functionality, at the time of closing, the Application Server 120 can be configured to cause the computer-implemented execution of disbursement of payments due to all disbursees (including but not limited to the Seller (that is if the Seller has opted into receiving funds via the disclosed Closing Payments Disbursement functionality of the Application Server), Seller Agent, Seller Broker, Buyer Agent, Buyer Broker, Title Company, legal representative(s), taxing authority/authorities) per the Closing Statement. The Closing Statement, prepared by the Title Company Representative or Title Company Escrow Agent via TOS 807, itemizes all of the amounts due to each disbursee and identifies each disbursee.

Payment options in real estate transactions include ACH or wire. Laws bar the use of ACH payments to escrow accounts and so payments to escrow accounts are typically made by wire and not ACH. In a conventional process for disbursements of checks at or post-closing, a title company representative (typically the Escrow Agent) creates physical checks due to each of the myriad parties, ensures the checks are signed and the checks are then mailed. Errors may be introduced at each step. System 100 provides a more efficient and secure process with the added benefit of converting the checks to wire. Additionally, conventional processes for effecting disbursements of checks after a closing has the potential to introduce human error (incorrect amount, incorrect disburse, lack of authorized signor(s)), fraud (wrong amount, incorrect disbursee, lack of authorized signors) and/or delay in processing (generating, mailing) the checks.

The disclosed Closing Payments Disbursement Module functionality 812 addresses each of these concerns by automating the creation of the disbursement checks, reducing the amount of dormant money, and by incorporating controls such as the requirement for two signors and the verification of the amounts of the checks against pre-set so-called ‘velocity controls’ for limits on the amounts payable to each specified disbursee. An added advantage is that the disbursement checks generated via the Application Server are ACH. The Application Server generates (‘prints’) electronic checks for each disbursee and in amounts as specified per the Closing Statement. In creating the electronic checks, no less than two (2) electronic signatures are required to be affixed to the electronic checks. After the electronic signatures are applied, the checks are converted to ACH and this is lawful as the check creation occurs outside of the escrow account. The electronic checks are then automatically deposited using the third party payment processing service provider and the Application Server 120 causes the sending of automated e-mail notifications confirming the disbursements.

Controls in the Closing Payments Disbursement System include the following: 1) Electronic signatures of two authorized individuals e-signing the checks are required and 2) pre-set velocity control verification step is applied for each check at the time that the electronic disbursements are generated. If an amount shown on the Closing Statement for any disburse does not meet the pre-set velocity controls for that disbursee, the Application Server 120 will not create the disbursement order and the Application Server 120 will not generate that disbursement check and the Application Server 120 sends an e-mail notification. This step protects against human error and fraud that may occur in the disbursement process after closing.

In certain embodiments, there is included a mobile-enabled application 302 that connects subscribing users that are licensed real estate agents and their brokers based on the content they post via the application 302 via their user devices. So, for example, an agent may post content (freeform text, photos, zip code, etc.) describing attributes of a real property sought by his/her client, such as for example zip code(s). Based on the desired zip code(s) for that real property, the application pushes (sends) the content to application users that are licensed real estate agents and brokers in the zip code(s) and/or agents and brokers who ‘farm’ the specified zip code(s) and/or have listings in the zip code(s). Today, agents and brokers utilize e-mail, face-to-face meetings and known social media platforms such as Facebook to communicate with their contacts (friends′) regarding real estate-related business. This capability offers a more efficient, secure alternative for agents and brokers to communicate real estate-related business with automatically targeted communications while preserving a professional image that is separate from the agents and brokers' non-business-related postings on social media.

Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 9, multiple third parties 157 can also be interfaced with system 100 via an application 302. These third parties can be provide services, documentation, engage in “chat” communications, etc. Some of these third parties may provide or receive funds either during the transaction or at closing as described above.

System 100 can greatly increase the efficiency of dealing with such third parties and can increase the efficiency with which such parties are paid and provide better records of the services provided by such third parties and any reports provided thereby.

The potential complexity of these processes, but the efficiency provided by system 100 is illustrated with respect to the diagram of FIG. 10, which illustrates the process for ordering an appraisal and paying the appraiser using system 100. First, lender 804 requests, via the LOS 805 that the borrower or buyer pay for the appraisal (1 b in FIG. 10). The lender 804 also notifies server 120 that the buyer was notified to pay (1 b).

If not done already, buyer can then download application 302 from a platform 1002 such as Google Play or iTunes and can register with server 120 as described above (2). The platform 1002 can ping server 120 (3) and server 120 can send information related to payment in response (4).

Buyer can then capture an image of a check and can forward to server 120 95). Server 120 can then confirm to the lender that payment was received (6 a) and confirm receipt to the buyer (6 b). The Lender's LOS 805 can then order the appraisal from Appraiser 157 (7) and once the appraiser has completed the appraisal, then he or she can cause the appraisal and the invoice to be sent to the LOS 805 (8).

LOS 805 can then send the invoice to server 120 (9) and server 120 can reconcile the invoice to the amount paid and request more funds if needed (10). Once the appropriate funds are received, then server 120 can pay appraiser 157 via dedicated FTP to their financial institution 170 (11). Server 120 can then send a notification of a Paid Outside of Closing (POC) transaction to all parties including the title company 806 (12).

Thus, multiple parties and third parties can use system 120 to access various services. As illustrated in FIG. 5, a party or user can sign (and register if needed) to the platform hosted by server 120 via an application 302, e.g., downloaded form a platform 1002. Once signed in, this will take the user to their landing page, which can give them access to the various resources 518-518-530, e.g., via portals 504-512.

FIG. 11 is another way to look at the resources provided by the platform hosted on server 120. FIG. 11 is a cross matrix of the various user types and the services provided.

The Authentication piece can be very powerful. As noted above, when a user registers they can be required to create a credential for authentication purposes. In certain embodiments, this can comprise a simple PIN. Bu tin others, the credential can also comprise biometrics and other factors. Moreover, a user can be required to capture an image of their identification, such as a driver's license or passport. Moreover, geolocation can be used to verify identification or to verify that a service being provided, such as an inspection, is actually being performed at the correct location.

Not only can this increase the level of authentication and prevent fraud, some of this information can also be stored for verification purposes.

In certain embodiments, a Notary can be used for, e.g., a remote closing. In such a process, a Notary can be dispatched to the location of the Buyer. Using the application, the Notary can authenticate the user as described above, e.g., by capturing driver's license information, etc. The location of the Notary can then be verified using the geolocation capability of device 110. Video capabilities of device 110 can then be used to capture the signing of the documents. In certain embodiments, the actual signed documents can be loaded to server 120 through the application. The closing funds can then be captured as described above.

One option for capturing the closing funds, or any other funds that has not yet been described is to allow the, e.g., Seller to use their Debit Card. AS noted above, various types of monies are required to be put into escrow during transactions such as real-estate transactions. While ACH is a convenient way to transfer funds, Ach will not generally work for, e.g., real-estate deals, because the payor can reverse the transaction for up to 90 days. But most, e.g., real-estate closings occur within 40 days. Thus, as noted above for, e.g., real-estate transactions, cashier's checks, paper checks, and wired funds are used; however, paper checks are being used less and less and the process for wiring funds or getting a cashier's check are inconvenient and inefficient. Platform 100 enables the user to capture the debit card information in order to generate an electronic check that can be electronically signed by the account holder and then sent to the escrow account for processing.

In other words, the user provides the debit card information. Server 120 contacts the appropriate financial institution 170 to verify funds and provide the transaction details so that the funds can be transferred from the user's account to, e.g., escrow. Once the funds are verified and the transfer completed, the financial institution server 120 can generate a check image that meets the requirements of, e.g., Check 21 that can actually be processed and saved.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating an example wired or wireless system 550 that may be used in connection with various embodiments described herein. For example the system 550 may be used as or in conjunction with the system 100, as previously described with respect to 1-11. The system 550 can be a conventional personal computer, computer server, personal digital assistant, smart phone, tablet computer, or any other processor enabled device that is capable of wired or wireless data communication. More particularly, the system 550 may represent the application server. Other computer systems and/or architectures may be also used, as will be clear to those skilled in the art.

The system 550 preferably includes one or more processors, such as processor 560. Additional processors may be provided, such as an auxiliary processor to manage input/output, an auxiliary processor to perform floating point mathematical operations, a special-purpose microprocessor having an architecture suitable for fast execution of signal processing algorithms (e.g., digital signal processor), a slave processor subordinate to the main processing system (e.g., back-end processor), an additional microprocessor or controller for dual or multiple processor systems, or a coprocessor. Such auxiliary processors may be discrete processors or may be integrated with the processor 560.

In one embodiment, the application server can be configured with more than one processor in order to separately process the incoming signals from a plurality of sensing devices, while a yet further processor is responsible for handling communication with the gateway device. In another embodiment, the gateway device may also be configured with a plurality of processors, with one processor configured to receive and process data from the central control device, a second processor configured to generate graphical user interfaces to display the received data to the user on a display of the gateway device and a third processor to communicate with the remote server. For a portable electronic device such as the central control device and gateway device, the processors may be low power processors to reduce power consumption on the devices' batteries.

The processor 560 is preferably connected to a communication bus 555. The communication bus 555 may include a data channel for facilitating information transfer between storage and other peripheral components of the system 550. The communication bus 555 further may provide a set of signals used for communication with the processor 560, including a data bus, address bus, and control bus (not shown). The communication bus 555 may comprise any standard or non-standard bus architecture such as, for example, bus architectures compliant with industry standard architecture (“ISA”), extended industry standard architecture (“EISA”), Micro Channel Architecture (“MCA”), peripheral component interconnect (“PCI”) local bus, or standards promulgated by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (“IEEE”) including IEEE 488 general-purpose interface bus (“GPM”), IEEE 696/S-100, and the like. These standards may be applicable to the remote server, while additional or varying standards may apply to portable electronic devices such as the central control device or sensing devices.

System 550 preferably includes a main memory 565 and may also include a secondary memory 570. The main memory 565 provides storage of instructions and data for programs executing on the processor 560. The main memory 565 is typically semiconductor-based memory such as dynamic random access memory (“DRAM”) and/or static random access memory (“SRAM”). Other semiconductor-based memory types include, for example, synchronous dynamic random access memory (“SDRAM”), Rambus dynamic random access memory (“RDRAM”), ferroelectric random access memory (“FRAM”), and the like, including read only memory (“ROM”).

The secondary memory 570 may optionally include an internal memory 575 and/or a removable medium 580, for example a floppy disk drive, a magnetic tape drive, a compact disc (“CD”) drive, a digital versatile disc (“DVD”) drive, etc. The removable medium 580 is read from and/or written to in a well-known manner. Removable storage medium 580 may be, for example, a floppy disk, magnetic tape, CD, DVD, SD card, etc.

The removable storage medium 580 is a non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon computer executable code (i.e., software) and/or data. The computer software or data stored on the removable storage medium 580 is read into the system 550 for execution by the processor 560.

In alternative embodiments, secondary memory 570 may include other similar means for allowing computer programs or other data or instructions to be loaded into the system 550. Such means may include, for example, an external storage medium 595 and an interface 590. Examples of external storage medium 595 may include an external hard disk drive or an external optical drive, or and external magneto-optical drive.

Other examples of secondary memory 570 may include semiconductor-based memory such as programmable read-only memory (“PROM”), erasable programmable read-only memory (“EPROM”), electrically erasable read-only memory (“EEPROM”), or flash memory (block oriented memory similar to EEPROM). Also included are any other removable storage media 580 and communication interface 590, which allow software and data to be transferred from an external medium 595 to the system 550.

System 550 may also include an input/output (“I/O”) interface 585. The I/O interface 585 facilitates input from and output to external devices. For example the I/O interface 585 may receive input from a keyboard or mouse and may provide output to a display. The I/O interface 585 is capable of facilitating input from and output to various alternative types of human interface and machine interface devices alike.

System 550 may also include a communication interface 590. The communication interface 590 allows software and data to be transferred between system 550 and external devices (e.g. printers), networks, or information sources. For example, computer software or executable code may be transferred to system 550 from a network server via communication interface 590. Examples of communication interface 590 include a modem, a network interface card (“NIC”), a wireless data card, a communications port, a PCMCIA slot and card, an infrared interface, and an IEEE 1394 fire-wire, just to name a few.

Communication interface 590 preferably implements industry promulgated protocol standards, such as Ethernet IEEE 802 standards, Fiber Channel, digital subscriber line (“DSL”), asynchronous digital subscriber line (“ADSL”), frame relay, asynchronous transfer mode (“ATM”), integrated digital services network (“ISDN”), personal communications services (“PCS”), transmission control protocol/Internet protocol (“TCP/IP”), serial line Internet protocol/point to point protocol (“SLIP/PPP”), and so on, but may also implement customized or non-standard interface protocols as well.

Software and data transferred via communication interface 590 are generally in the form of electrical communication signals 605. These signals 605 are preferably provided to communication interface 590 via a communication channel 600. In one embodiment, the communication channel 600 may be a wired or wireless network, or any variety of other communication links. Communication channel 600 carries signals 605 and can be implemented using a variety of wired or wireless communication means including wire or cable, fiber optics, conventional phone line, cellular phone link, wireless data communication link, radio frequency (“RF”) link, or infrared link, just to name a few.

Computer executable code (i.e., computer programs or software) is stored in the main memory 565 and/or the secondary memory 570. Computer programs can also be received via communication interface 590 and stored in the main memory 565 and/or the secondary memory 570. Such computer programs, when executed, enable the system 550 to perform the various functions of the present invention as previously described.

In this description, the term “computer readable medium” is used to refer to any non-transitory computer readable storage media used to provide computer executable code (e.g., software and computer programs) to the system 550. Examples of these media include main memory 565, secondary memory 570 (including internal memory 575, removable medium 580, and external storage medium 595), and any peripheral device communicatively coupled with communication interface 590 (including a network information server or other network device). These non-transitory computer readable mediums are means for providing executable code, programming instructions, and software to the system 550.

In an embodiment that is implemented using software, the software may be stored on a computer readable medium and loaded into the system 550 by way of removable medium 580, I/O interface 585, or communication interface 590. In such an embodiment, the software is loaded into the system 550 in the form of electrical communication signals 605. The software, when executed by the processor 560, preferably causes the processor 560 to perform the inventive features and functions previously described herein.

The system 550 also includes optional wireless communication components that facilitate wireless communication over a voice and over a data network. The wireless communication components comprise an antenna system 610, a radio system 615 and a baseband system 620. In the system 550, radio frequency (“RF”) signals are transmitted and received over the air by the antenna system 610 under the management of the radio system 615.

In one embodiment, the antenna system 610 may comprise one or more antennae and one or more multiplexors (not shown) that perform a switching function to provide the antenna system 610 with transmit and receive signal paths. In the receive path, received RF signals can be coupled from a multiplexor to a low noise amplifier (not shown) that amplifies the received RF signal and sends the amplified signal to the radio system 615.

In alternative embodiments, the radio system 615 may comprise one or more radios that are configured to communicate over various frequencies. In one embodiment, the radio system 615 may combine a demodulator (not shown) and modulator (not shown) in one integrated circuit (“IC”). The demodulator and modulator can also be separate components. In the incoming path, the demodulator strips away the RF carrier signal leaving a baseband receive audio signal, which is sent from the radio system 615 to the baseband system 620.

If the received signal contains audio information, then baseband system 620 decodes the signal and converts it to an analog signal. Then the signal is amplified and sent to a speaker. The baseband system 620 also receives analog audio signals from a microphone. These analog audio signals are converted to digital signals and encoded by the baseband system 620. The baseband system 620 also codes the digital signals for transmission and generates a baseband transmit audio signal that is routed to the modulator portion of the radio system 615. The modulator mixes the baseband transmit audio signal with an RF carrier signal generating an RF transmit signal that is routed to the antenna system and may pass through a power amplifier (not shown). The power amplifier amplifies the RF transmit signal and routes it to the antenna system 610 where the signal is switched to the antenna port for transmission.

The baseband system 620 is also communicatively coupled with the processor 560. The central processing unit 560 has access to data storage areas 565 and 570. The central processing unit 560 is preferably configured to execute instructions (i.e., computer programs or software) that can be stored in the memory 565 or the secondary memory 570. Computer programs can also be received from the baseband processor 610 and stored in the data storage area 565 or in secondary memory 570, or executed upon receipt. Such computer programs, when executed, enable the system 550 to perform the various functions of the present invention as previously described. For example, data storage areas 565 may include various software modules (not shown) that are executable by processor 560.

Various embodiments may also be implemented primarily in hardware using, for example, components such as application specific integrated circuits (“ASICs”), or field programmable gate arrays (“FPGAs”). Implementation of a hardware state machine capable of performing the functions described herein will also be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art. Various embodiments may also be implemented using a combination of both hardware and software.

Furthermore, those of skill in the art will appreciate that the various illustrative logical blocks, modules, circuits, and method steps described in connection with the above described figures and the embodiments disclosed herein can often be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Skilled persons can implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the invention. In addition, the grouping of functions within a module, block, circuit or step is for ease of description. Specific functions or steps can be moved from one module, block or circuit to another without departing from the invention.

Moreover, the various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and methods described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented or performed with a general purpose processor, a digital signal processor (“DSP”), an ASIC, FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor can be any processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor can also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, for example, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

While certain embodiments have been described above, it will be understood that the embodiments described are by way of example only. Accordingly, the systems and methods described herein should not be limited based on the described embodiments. Rather, the systems and methods described herein should only be limited in light of the claims that follow when taken in conjunction with the above description and accompanying drawings. 

What is claimed:
 1. A system for storing data related to a transaction and for facilitating the transaction, the system comprising: a database; an application server coupled with the database and configured to store information associated with a plurality of transactions, the information including a transaction identifier, and escrow agent identifier, and account information related to an escrow agent account for the escrow agent maintained with a financial institution, the application server further configured to receive an image of the a check associated with a payment related to the transaction from a buyer or buyer agent, forward the check image, payment information, and escrow agent account information to the financial institution to cause a deposit into the escrow agent account, and generate and send notifications to the escrow agent and buyer or buyer agent.
 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a mobile device and application running thereon, and wherein the application is configured to cause the device to capture the check image, process the image and provide it to the application server.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the application is configured to send the check image to a check image server and to receive a processed check image back from the check image server, which the application then provides to the application server.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the check image processing creates a Check 21 compliant check image.
 5. The system of claim 3, wherein the application server receives the check image from the check image server instead of the device.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the application server includes portals for the buyer, buyer agent, escrow agent, or all of the above that allows the buyer, buyer agent, or escrow agent to access the application server and manage accounts related thereto.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the application server further comprises a database management resource for managing the database, a payment processing resource for managing payment transactions, and an authentication resource for managing the authentication of users of the application server.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the application server is further configured to receive an authentication credential associated with the check image and to authenticate a party associated with the check image, before forwarding the check image.
 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the application server is further configured to send a notification to a seller, seller agent, or both. 